emily buttarazzi hall

It's a desire to tell your story. A story that breathes life long after the moment has passed.

I'm a mom, I have a camera(s) but I'm not a mom with a camera.

I'm a photographer.

The passion I feel for photography came long before my own babies were in the picture.

My heart is in photojournalism but all aspects of photography have the ability to captivate me.

Knowledge is key, so I seek it often. With every new piece of knowledge my passion for photography grows deeper.

My style is based on my surroundings. Who my subject is and what they are feeling that day. Although consultations lead me into a session with information, I try not to have too many preconceived ideas. You never know what you may walk into, so I like to leave the possibilities open.

The children's images I produce come from a place of real love. You might call it an adoration. I find children to just be amazing!!! My excitement for little ones may have been cultivated by my placement at number 13 in a family of 14. Or maybe by being an aunt to more than 50 nieces and nephews. It's important to note that being a mother to my own two boys has taught me the most.

At the root of every one of my images there is the base of my passion and that is photojournalism. The children's photos, the still life, the reflections, the documentary images; they all aim to tell a story.

The fun thing about photojournalism is the depth of the story in each photo. Not only do the images reflect the subject but they can also reflect the photographer and their perspective on the subject.

Often I am asked, "What is it you like to photograph?"

My response is usually something along the lines of, "I like to photograph." (insert smile here)

Up until now, there hasn't been a subject that I have not enjoyed photographing.

If the conversation goes there, I usually break it down something like this:

Reflections are when I'm most peaceful.

People I find wonderful and interesting.

Children are hysterical, no matter what they are doing.

If I had to choose only one category, then I would say celebrations are when I have the most fun.

The documentary side of this photography is what makes my heart thump. The bonus here is that 9 times out of 10, people are having a good time when you are at a celebration.

I am thankful for the 2011 opportunity that allowed me to follow my passion.

I am grateful that my first full year in business was inspiring, informative and successful!

I am confident that the years that follow will bring more enjoyment, inspiration and passion!